Music for the Cynical, Broken-Hearted and Blissfully Single
While the rest of the world is drowning in overpriced roses, sickly sweet chocolates and the suffocating scent of manufactured sentiment, some of us prefer our February 14th to be a bit grittier, with a side of minor chords and a healthy dose of reality. Whether you’re currently nursing a bruised ego, recovering from a recent ghosting, or raising a glass to your own hard-won independence, jazz can offer a sanctuary for the un-coupled. It’s the music of the midnight rain and the solitary streetlamp—a genre that understands “love” doesn’t always have to be a Broadway finale; sometimes, it can be a moody trumpet solo in a dimly lit room.
Here is a curated look at the sounds that trade saccharine sweet for smoke and soul. May these songs help you to celebrate your own “Anti-Valentine’s Day” this year.
Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue – Janis Siegel, John Di Martino & others
Has your latest fling moved on and found someone new? That rejection is going to sting. But this song, from Night is Alive’s country jazz album Cryin’ In My Whiskey, will at least help you to know that you’re not alone. As Crystal Gayle sang in 1977, many people go through this experience, and guess what? They all recover from it. You’ve found someone new and / Don’t it make my brown eyes blue.
Kathy’s Blues – Harry Allen Trio
Having the blues doesn’t necessarily have to be downtrodden and sad. It can be nice and cathartic to luxuriate in the deeper swings, the lower notes, of life. This tune, from Night is Alive’s album It Takes 3 captures the hues and resonances of the blues. Pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine and bask in Rossano Sportiello’s intricate piano and Harry Allen’s unforgettable saxophone. This is love too; self-love.
Free – Lonnie Plaxico, Camille Thurman
Being single doesn’t mean being alone, it means being free. This is an important message to remember. From nothingness comes infinite possibilities. There are so many places you can go, things you can do, life to live and goals to accomplish. Without a partner you don’t have to factor anyone else into your decisions. You are free to do exactly as you please! Embrace this freedom with this lovely song from the hot new album Radiance.
Do you ever want to be completely alone, veg out on the couch with a facemask and hot tea and watch your favorite movie? Well, guess what, this “Anti-Valentine’s Day” you can do just that! You don’t have to answer to anyone, and you don’t have to be anywhere, so use the time to get some rest and relaxation. You deserve it! And while you’re at it, listen to this song, from Night is Alive’s album, which celebrates the joys of reclusivity.
Looking Back – Bill Cunliffe, Martin Wind, Tim Horner
Looking back and reflecting on your life, isn’t it wonderful to realize that you’re not stuck in one of your past relationships? Wouldn’t you rather be single than forcing something with someone that wasn’t right for you? It’s important to take time to look back and recognize how far you’ve come, and this song, from Night is Alive’s album Border Widow’s Lament, provides the perfect backdrop for such ruminations.
written by Jacqueline Knirnschild
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash
